Body Mass Index and Orthopedic Surgery

BMI.  Body Mass Index= (Weight)/(Height)²

As our population in the United States has struggled with obesity, its impact on total joint replacement has become important.  15 years ago, no one cared what weight you were. If you had arthritis in a joint and it was severe and disabling, surgeons would believe that by doing a joint replacement, you would be able to walk better and lose weight. It makes sense...right?

However, two studies have recently shown that:
1. BMI over 50 causes much higher risk of complications after total joint replacement.
2.  Patients who have the surgery rarely lose the weight after joint replacement.

So with these two data points being verified now with more and more research, we have to ask the questions, "when is joint replacement unsafe?" To combat this, our group has began to focus on medical weight loss as well as bariatric surgery prior to joint replacement surgery.  By reducing weight, we can increase satisfaction and the success of joint replacements.

At Atlanta Bone and Joint, we pride ourselves for being up to date on research and using it to guide patient care.  Check your BMI today at https://www.atlantaboneandjoint.com/jointreplacement.html before you have your joint replaced. ​